Monday, October 06, 2008
Bulletproof Clothing Becomes Mexico's New Fashion
Last week, I predicted that personal protection products would become hot items, and just South of the border, it's developed into a style.
In Mexico, worried residents are buying bulletproof apparel from Miguel Caballero, like their lives depend on it. Rising crime and violence has spread anxiety throughout the country, and as a result, Caballero is cashing in. An article in the International Herald-Tribune (branch of the New York Times) showed the stats regarding personal protection and security in Mexico.
Studies have shown that more and more anxious Mexicans are pouring their money into defensive measures. Families and businesses across Mexico invest $18 billion in private security measures, a recent study by the Center for Economic Studies of the Private Sector found. Some people are trying to get their hands on weapons, which are tightly regulated here but widely available on the black market. To some, bulletproof fashion is the logical next step.
MC's Customers range from Presidents, such as Venezuela Hugo Chavez, to business executives. The style types range from tactical to practical in four product lines- MC Black (Elegant European style), MC Gold ("American style" multi-functional, sports and entertainment), MC Classic (security companies and private groups) and MC Silver (Value transportation companies, banks,surveillance, bodyguards,etc.) There's even a polo shirt available, which offers protection from "random street violence
Designs are divided into three categories:
- Low protection level (9mm and pistols)
- Medium protection level (sub-machine guns and pistols)
- High Protection level (pistols and automatics, including an MP5)
The specialty store's success has led to expansion into Guatemala City, Johannesburg (South Africa) and London. Consider the socioeconomic differences between an impoverished city such as Guatemala and London, one of the wealthiest cities in the world. Obviously, the product's appeal transcends cultural and economic boundaries. At this rate, with the failed bailout and sinking economy, it's only a matter of time before MC stores hit the good old United States.
Posted By Matt O'Hern at 01:28 PM
Permanent Link: Bulletproof Clothing Becomes Mexico's New Fashion
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